Bosque de Piedras de Huayllay
Pasco
The Bosque de Piedras de Huayllay, located in the Pasco region of Peru, is a remarkable natural sanctuary known for its extensive collection of over 4,000 rock formations sculpted by erosion. These formations, often resembling animals such as turtles, alpacas, condors, elephants, zebras, penguins, dogs, and snails, as well as human profiles like 'the walker' or 'the thinker,' create a surreal landscape atop the Meseta of Bombón plateau. Formed from volcanic ignimbrite deposited during the Cenozoic era, these porous rocks were eroded over thousands of years by freeze-thaw cycles during the last ice age, resulting in the deeply weathered shapes seen today. The sanctuary, established in 1974, spans approximately 6,000 hectares at an altitude of around 4,310 meters above sea level, featuring a cold and dry climate with temperatures ranging from -8 to 13.8 °C. Beyond its geological wonders, the area offers eleven well-marked hiking routes where visitors can explore the rock forest, observe native flora and fauna, and discover archaeological remains and ancient rock paintings. Additionally, nearby thermal springs such as La Calera, Goshpi, and Yanahuato provide medicinal waters, enhancing the visitor experience. The Bosque de Piedras is also a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts, drawing international attention.
Planifiez votre voyage en Pérou avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore the sanctuary during the dry season for optimal weather conditions. It is recommended to take guided tours to fully appreciate the numerous rock formations and archaeological sites. Eleven well-marked hiking trails vary in difficulty, with easier routes taking three to four hours. Booking guided visits in advance is beneficial, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Due to the high altitude and cold climate, visitors should prepare appropriate clothing and acclimatize accordingly.
Faits intéressants
- •The rock formations are sometimes compared to the Shilin Stone Forest in China and the Garden of the Gods in the USA due to their dramatic erosion and unique shapes.
- •More than 4,000 distinct rock figures have been identified and named by locals, resembling various animals and human profiles.
- •The sanctuary sits at a high altitude of approximately 4,310 meters (14,140 feet) above sea level, contributing to its cold and dry climate.
- •The porous nature of ignimbrite rock made it especially susceptible to erosion, shaping the sanctuary's unique landscape during the last ice age.
Histoire
The Bosque de Piedras de Huayllay was formed from volcanic activity during the Cenozoic era when ignimbrite was deposited over older rock layers.
Approximately 20,000 years ago, during the last ice age, freeze-thaw cycles caused significant erosion that sculpted the unique rock formations.
The area was officially protected as the Huayllay National Sanctuary in 1974 to preserve its geological and ecological significance.
Over time, it has become recognized as a natural wonder of the Andes and a key site for both tourism and scientific study.
Guide du lieu
The Rock FormationsCenozoic era
An extensive collection of over 4,000 uniquely shaped rock formations resembling animals and human figures, formed by volcanic ignimbrite erosion.
Hiking Trails
Eleven well-marked hiking routes that allow visitors to explore the sanctuary's geological wonders, native flora, fauna, and archaeological sites.
Thermal Springs
Nearby medicinal hot springs including La Calera, Goshpi, and Yanahuato, offering therapeutic waters for visitors.